Princess Charlene of Monaco, born Charlene Lynette Wittstock on January 25, 1978, in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, is a former Olympic swimmer who represented South Africa at the 2000 Sydney Olympics. She competed in the 4x100-meter medley relay, finishing fifth with the South African team.
Charlene married Prince Albert II of Monaco on July 1, 2011, in a civil ceremony followed by a religious ceremony on July 2. The wedding was a major royal event, attended by numerous dignitaries and celebrities.
The couple welcomed twins on December 10, 2014: Princess Gabriella, Countess of Carladès, and Jacques, Hereditary Prince of Monaco. Jacques is second in line to the throne after his father, making him the heir apparent.
In addition to her royal duties, Charlene has been involved in charitable work, particularly focusing on water safety and drowning prevention through the Princess Charlene of Monaco Foundation, which she founded in 2012. The foundation has implemented programs in over 40 countries.
As of 2026, Princess Charlene continues to fulfill her royal role and philanthropic efforts, balancing her public duties with her family life in Monaco.
